Malinin Looks to Clinch Grand Prix Final Berth at Skate Canada International
Ilia Malinin is gearing up for a crucial weekend as he aims to secure his spot in the ISU Grand Prix of Figure Skating Final 2025 during the highly anticipated Skate Canada International, taking place in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan from October 31 to November 2. This exhilarating event marks the third stop in the six-part Grand Prix Series, drawing top talent from around the globe.
Malinin, the two-time reigning World Champion, showcased his dominance earlier this season by clinching victory at the Grand Prix de France, outpacing his nearest competitor by an impressive 40 points. Having also secured the last two Grand Prix Final titles, he is the overwhelming favorite to win again in Canada. A triumph this weekend would extend his remarkable streak to twelve consecutive individual victories since December 2023.
Joining Malinin on the ice is Tomoki Hiwatashi, who is coming off a solid fourth-place finish at the Cup of China. This marks his second consecutive event in the Grand Prix Series. Hiwatashi trained in Japan and also captured bronze medals at both the Trialeti Trophy and Kinoshita Group Cup this season.
In the women’s division, Isabeau Levito, the 2024 World silver medalist, aims to secure her sixth Grand Prix Series medal, following a fourth-place finish in France. Meanwhile, Sarah Everhardt, last season’s U.S. bronze medalist, and Olympian Bradie Tennell make their Grand Prix debuts after achieving solid results earlier this season.
The pairs event features the reigning U.S. champions, Ellie Kam and Danny O’Shea, who are eager to rebound after finishing fifth at the Trialeti Trophy. The competition also includes three ice dance teams, notably Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko, who earned a silver at the Nebelhorn Trophy.
Overall, fans can look forward to an action-packed weekend filled with remarkable performances. Competition kicks off on Friday with the pairs and women’s short programs, followed by the rhythm dance and men’s events on Saturday, culminating with the men’s free skate and free dance on Sunday. Don’t miss the comprehensive recap on NBC Sports!
